Dragons end fly-half hunt

NEWPORT Gwent Dragons have called off their search for an experienced fly-half.

The Dragons had considered bringing in a new number 10 from outside of Wales to counter the departures of Jason Tovey and Matthew Jones.

But given that they are working with a tight budget, the region have decided that strengthening other departments of their squad is a more of a priority.

They had a close look at 23-year-old Francois Brummer, a former South Africa Under-20s fly-half who used to be back-up to Morne Steyn at the Bulls in the Super 15. He is now playing for Griquas in
domestic rugby.

Other options included Edinburgh's Phil Godman and London Irish's Adrian Jarvis, who have since penned deals with London Scottish and Bristol in the English Championship.

However, the Dragons have opted to head into next season with 20-year-old Lewis Robling and 21-year-old Steffan Jones as their two fly-halves.

The region feel they can reap the rewards from blooding the promising pair in the RaboDirect Pro12 at the end of last season rather than blocking their progress with another 10.

They will be backed up by new signing Dan Evans, who was predominantly a fly-half when he came through the ranks with Llanelli before settling as a full-back at the Scarlets.

Centres Adam Hughes, who ended the final game of the season at fly-half, and Ashley Smith are emergency alternatives.

Meanwhile, the Dragons hope to have a new deal for wing Tonderai Chavhanga rubber-stamped soon.

The South Africa international speedster was away from the blocks a little too sharply when he announced on Twitter last week that he is staying at Rodney Parade.

A new contract has been agreed and the Welsh Rugby Union have given the green light but the 28-year-old from Zimbabwe is still waiting on a work visa.